Member Q&A - Ellen Walsh

Each month we talk to a PSA Youth member and find out about their work and passions.

If you want to be involved in this feature let us know at psay@psa.org.nz.

What were you initial thoughts on signing up to do this Q&A?

I was very flattered!

What is your job and what do you do on an average day at work?

I'm a team administrator at the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, where I look after four managers and their teams. An average day involves responding to recruitment queries, managing diary changes, fixing documents, booking travel.

What would you say is the hardest thing about your job?

Not enough hours in the day!

What brought you to join the PSA and the PSA Youth network?

I've been a member of the PSA since I started working in the public service about 3 years ago. I joined because I felt like it was maybe a good time to be a union member! Joining PSA Youth, and becoming active in it came a little later after I attended a leadership hui earlier in the year. I joined PSAY because I wanted to get more involved in union activities and also meet some new people.

Name one (or more) things you like about the PSA Youth network

I feel like I've found another subset of 'my people' who I really click with, who are passionate about making change.

What is your vision for youth in the PSA?

A vibrant, diverse, and vocal group of people who are seen as leaders in making workplaces better for all New Zealanders.

How about when you aren't at work? What else do you like to do with your time?

I LOVE to sing. I sing in two choirs, one for 'young professionals' (25ish - 35ish) who are some of the best people I know, and a larger, 'symphonic' choir. Both very different, but great in their own ways. I also go to the gym, bake, BYO then karaoke, watch t.v., am learning to crochet, and travel when I can. Fairly standard activities for someone of my age :)

What are your three favourite foods?

This is hard, because I love food. But I especially love cottage cheese, avocado, and vegie thai green curry. Anything that doesn't have a face (or a shell).

What are your three loves?

My partner, my cat, singing.

What are your three pet peeves?

Dishonesty, incorrect spelling, people not merging like a zip whilst driving!

What advice would you give your 18year old self?

It really, actually will all work out. For the most part. Maybe not how you expected, but not as bad as you had feared.